Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State has launched a new plan to develop the state’s solid minerals sector as part of efforts to diversify its economy.
Speaking at the Mining Stakeholders Forum in Damaturu, Governor Buni said the “Yobe Mining Development Company Limited” is the only agency authorized to handle all exploration and mining activities across the state.
He described the company as the government’s “One-Stop-Shop” for the mining sector.
According to a statement on Thursday by Mamman Mohammed, director general, press and media affairs, the governor said Yobe is rich in minerals such as limestone, gypsum, kaolin, granite, quartz, and silica, which have remained untapped for decades.
“The time has come to turn these hidden potentials into productive assets that will create jobs, generate wealth, and advance the socio-economic development of our people,” Buni said.
He added that the goal is to build a mining sector that ensures community participation, attracts investors, and protects the environment.
According to him, responsible mining can drive economic resilience, create jobs, and boost state revenue.
He urged stakeholders to focus on mineral mapping, data presentation, investor engagement, and community participation.
Feasibility studies ongoing in Yobe
The Managing Director of the Yobe Mining Development Company, Engr. Bamodu Yerima, said feasibility studies are ongoing in three key mineral areas.
They include limestone for cement and hydrated lime production, gypsum for fertilizer and building materials, and trona (soda ash) for detergent and glass production.
He said the company engaged consultants through open and transparent processes to meet international standards.
Yerima added that the company is organizing artisanal and small-scale miners across Fika, Fune, Gulani, Gujba, Yusufari, and Nangere into cooperative clusters.
He said these miners are receiving training, safety tools, and market access to support their operations.
According to Yerima, a “Community Development Trust Fund” was created to reinvest 5 to 10 percent of project profits into education, health, and water services.
He said the company ensures mining supports local livelihoods, peace, and shared prosperity at the community level.
Yerima added that the company has engaged international financial institutions such as the Islamic Development Bank, AfDB, BADEA, Afreximbank, and AFC for partnership projects.
He also mentioned NEXIM Bank and the Bank of Industry as partners for export financing and value addition in mineral-based manufacturing.
Stakeholders at the forum, including representatives from across Nigeria and Germany, praised the Yobe Government for its plan to create jobs and grow the state’s economy through mining.
Memoranda of Understanding were signed between the Yobe State Government and various partners during the event.
